Create a Very Merry Holiday Season

You can thrive, not just survive, and create a wonderful holiday season this year. You just need to do 4 things.

• Keep your expectations rational
  


• Take care of yourself

Take control of your time and limit your commitments

Embrace your family and friends

These tips will help you reduce stress, relax, and breeze through the holiday season feeling grounded and in control.

Rational Expectations:

The most important contributors to a happy holiday season are the expectations you create in your own mind. You can't make them perfect - People get sick, recipes flop, and family members don't always get along.

Coworkers aren't always kind to each other.

You don't have to have the perfect party, perfectly behaved children, or the most beautifully decorated home. Give yourself a break. You will b happy you did.

Take Care of Yourself:

Taking care of your physical and mental health is the single most important aspect of creating holiday health and happiness.

Eat healthy. When you eat better you feel better and you have more energy.

Take some time during your day to relax and breath. It can be as simple as enjoying a hot cup of tea and focusing on what is going well.

The more relaxed and confident you are the higher your self esteem will be.

Don't try to diet during the holidays, it will make you feel like a failure and ruin the festive nature of parties and celebration.

Time and Limit your Commitments:

Why does every new program or process at work have to start on January 1st? With this starting date in mind, your holiday season will always be a nightmare of over-commitment. You are already rushing with the normal holiday happenings. Why roll out a new process to complicate the holiday season and raise your level of work-related stress?

You are in charge of the number of commitments you make. You don't have to hold a party at your home or say yes to every one you are invited to. You can even schedule a party in February instead and wait till the craziness of the holidays have settled down.

Enjoy Family and Friends:

Spend the time of your life with the people you love. Make sure you don't spend the holidays trying to save the world and please those around you. Instead share laughter and memories. Take time for personal reflection. Start a new tradition or follow through with old ones. Focus on what is right and going well instead of what is not. Be grateful for who is in your life instead of dwelling on who is not.

No matter what holiday you celebrate, these tips will make them happier, healthier, and more fun. Please accept our wishes for a happy healthy season for you and yours.

Holiday Gifts for Low Vision

During this holiday season finding the ideal gift for a loved one with low vision doesn't have to be a challenge. You can find the perfect gift for your gadget geek, your chef and even your beauty queen that can put a smile on their face.

May we introduce Vision Dynamics' Holiday Gift Guide! Also, read below for great tips if you're having individuals with low vision visit for the holidays.

For the Beauty Queen:
Lighted Magnifying Cosmetic Mirror
Magnified Tweezers

Gadget Geek:
Handheld Electronic Video Magnifier
Digital Talking Compass
Talking Calculator
Pen Friend Labeling System
Digital Recorder

Master Chef
Talking Microwave
Talking Timer
Adjustable Knife
EZ Fill Liquid Indicator
Extra Long Oven Mitt
Talking Timer

Game lovers:
Braille Uno
Braille Monopoly
Jumbo Cards
High Contrast/Large Print Scrabble
Large printed Bingo Cards

Phone Users:
Cell phone with large buttons (Snapfon)
Jumbo Button Talking Phone
Cordless Big Button Phone (with answering machine)

Bookworm
Booksense

Couch Potato
Large Button TV Remote
TV Screen Enlarger

Letter Writer
20/20 Bold Pens
Large Print Address Book
Dark Lined Paper
Letter Guide

For those who hate to be late
Talking Watches
Talking Clocks
Large Display Clocks
Low Vision Watches
Talking Key-chain Clock

For Anyone
Task Lamp
Video Magnifier
Lap Desk
Hand Held Magnifiers
Large Print Calendar

You can find all these products and more on our website, just visit us at www.VisionDynamics.com

Something else to be aware of during the holiday season if you're having low vision guests:
1. Use high contrasting colors when decorating your table to help things stand out. For example use dark colored place-mats and light colored plates or vise versa.
2. Put bold colored throws on your couches
3. Use dark colored towels in your bathroom.
4. Decorate your banister with festive lighting and place brightly colored tape strips along the edge of each step to help it stand out.
5. Remove clutter on the floor and keep walkways clear
6. Most importantly - don't forget to have fun!

PUMPKIN IS GOOD FOR THE EYES

Pumpkin is a healthy food especially for the eyes. It is loaded with vitamin A and also provides the eyes with Lutein and zeaxanthin, which is crucial to maintaining eye health. Thanksgiving is just around the corner so if you have never made a pumpkin pie or shake from scratch than go for it. Just so you know there are some canned mixes that are not pumpkin at all. They have actually been known to be a mixed variety of squashes. Make sure you check the labels. Here is a simple recipe the whole family can enjoy.

PUMPKIN PIE SHAKE (SERVES 4)

2 CUPS OF VANILLA REDUCED FAT ICE-CREAM ( HEALTHY CHOICE) SOFTENED

2/3 CUP CANNED PUMPKIN

1/4 CUP PACKED BROWN SUGAR

3/4 TEASPOON PUMPKIN-PIE SPICE

3 TABLESPOONS FROZEN FAT-FREE WHIPPED TOPPING, THAWED

PUMPKIN PIE SPICE IS OPTIONAL

PREPARATION

COMBINE FIRST 5 INGREDIENTS IN A BLENDER, PROCESS UNTIL SMOOTH. POUR MIXTURE INTO THE FOUR GLASSES AND TOP EACH ONE WITH 2 TEASPOONS OF THE WHIPPED TOPPING. SPRINKLE WITH THE ADDITIONAL PUMPKIN-PIE SPICE OR TRY CINNAMON.

ENJOY

I Read an interesting article and thought I would pass on some of the key information. I found this very helpful.
"When you lose your eyesight, you lose contact with things. When you lose your hearing, you lose contact with people." Helen Keller (1880-1968)
Vision and hearing are the two senses that are an essential part of our everyday life. We depend on them constantly as we go through life. Whether we are at work or enjoying a leisurely day with our family these two senses allow us to interact with lobed ones more completely. Unfortunately many people in the United States go undiagnosed with hearing loss despite its importance. Didi you know that an estimated 1.7 million adults age 65 and over report both vision AND hearing loss?
There are many causes for hearing and vision loss which result from somewhat similar genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Exposure to oxidative stress, cigarette smoking and atherosclerosis and its risk factors have been linked to age-related macular degeneration, cataracts and hearing loss. No matter what the cause, these two impairments were found to have a cumulative effect on a persons function and well being affecting loved ones both mentally and physically.
Because of the strong connection between our vision and our hearing we are pleased to offer a fully integrated hearing and vision solution.
It makes sense to evaluate these two senses and provide treatment options in one location. While there are many causes of hearing loss, AGE and NOISE EXPOSURE are the two most common causes. The normal aging process begins to take its toll around age 55, but exposure to loud noises (like music and industrial noise) may cause problems to occur much earlier in life. Vi son loss and hearing loss often occur in the same people, sometimes linked be a specific disease an other times purely because both problems affect us as we get older. The important thing is that both of these key senses are critical to daily life, and while the loss of either can be debilitating, the loss of BOTH will affect every minute of every day in some way. For about 90% of all cases of hearing loss, hearing aids or hearing devices of some kind are the best available treatment options. Hearing loss and vision loss both begin to deteriorate around the age of 55: therefore patients with visual impairments may soon experience similar hearing problems as well. In a recent scientific study of 2,400 people, with an average age of 70, researchers found a significant link between vision loss and hearing loss.
Our goal is to empower and inspire people to lead happy and independent lives. We are so excited to open (See and Hear America) our hearing and vision solutions center.

NOW WHAT

Today you find out that your child has been diagnosed "legally blind" and this will change the way he or she sees the world. Maybe you are scared, angry, concerned about their future or not sure how you will get through the rest of the day. These feelings are normal and you are not alone. Just remember how you react has an impact on your child. Being "legally blind" does not mean they cannot see. Your next step is to be your child's advocate in every way you can. Do NOT feel sorry for them. Accept the challenge and move forward and find ways to support and embrace this new journey that you are all on. Get them involved in activities, whether its ice skating- horseback riding or swimming. Allow them to continue what they enjoy, or try something new. Don't for one second think that your child's future will be less successful than a someone who is sighted. Remember that vision is an inside job and we don't need sight for that.
One of the first steps is to have the doctor submit a form to the state, eye report form, which will start the process of receiving support for your child. Every child has the ability to live a full and prosperous life if you let them. Don't enable them, allow them to learn ways to participate with their peers and do things for themselves. As a parent it is your job to encourage, support and help when it's needed. Be their cheerleader and advocate. Ask what is available for services and how you can help the process in school. There are many resources that will involve the families as well.
This website can be a starting point for you and your family to begin the process of gathering information. You will quickly realize that you are not alone. Make sure that you ask as many questions as you can possibly think of in order to receive all the help you can. Your child is entitled to an education like all kids and may need some adaptive technology to help aid in the process. Ask for training and go to every school meeting and support your child's right to learn.

Another great website can be found here Don't let being legally blind halt your dreams and aspirations for your child's future instead embrace it and visualize greatness! Anything and everything is possible.

Web Sevices for Visually Challenged

This is taken from "ReadWriteWeb.com"

At Vision Dynamics we try to find helpful information to pass along. Well, we came across something that we are very excited about!
Google has announced a new initiative to increase accessibility for visually challenged users on its major Web services. In advance of the upcoming school year, Google is rolling out accessibility impovements to Docs, Sites and Calendars. Google is hosting a live webinar for enterprise customers - which include education institutions - on Wednesday, September 21 at 12 p.m. Pacific time.
The enhancements include new keyboard shortcuts and enhanced screen reader support. Google says it has "worked closely with advocacy organizations for the blind to improve our products with more accessibility enhancements" over the past few months, and that more changes are on the way. "We believe that people who depend on assistive technologies deserve as rich and as productive an experience on the web as sighted users," says T.V. Raman, Google's technical lead on accessibility, "and we're working to help that become a reality."
To read more about this please visit this site.

SEE AND HEAR AMERICA

Exciting News!

Vision Dynamics now offers Hearing Aids, Assistive Listening Devices and Complementary Hearing Products.

Yes we have LISTENED to you. For years you have been asking me why we don't you carry hearing devices. I have always said "Because we are a vision center... and why would a legally blind guy carry hearing products?"

I have been studying and learning the hearing industry and was amazed at all the great products that are available for people with all types of hearing loss and needs.

As you know for 4 years now Dr. Randy Kinkade has an office here at the store and we partnered because we both saw how if we joined forces we could serve you better and that is exactly what we have done with hearing.

Let me introduce you to my new company SEE AND HEAR AMERICA that offers the best solution for all levels of vision and hearing loss.

Now with SEE AND HEAR AMERICA we can also provide a hands-on and ears-on listening center that carries all of our Assisted Listening Devices. These products might be all you need to hear your television, radio, or loved one speaking to you more clearly. If you have hearing aids they will help them work better. Yes, we have hearing aids too!

In one great location you now get access to all the great products we offer, our knowledgeable sales team and the personalized service you expect form Vision Dynamics.

You have the ability to make an appointment with Dr. Randy Kinkade for specialized low vision eyeglasses or with Marcia Cornell, our audiologist, for hearing testing.

See and Here for yourself all the new products and services we can now offer you or someone you know.

Sincerely,

Charlie Collins
Founder and Owner
Vision Dynamics, LLC

BAKING MADE EASIER

Many times when we lose the ability to see like we used to our basic every-day hobbies are left behind. The thought of cooking or baking becomes a chore and maybe even a fear. Well we want you to know that thought can change if you want it to. With a few simple changes and some adaptations you can be baking in no time. You will have to tap into your other senses and utilize those more. Your sense of touch and smell will become important. There are many every-day items that can make working in the kitchen neater, safer, and more enjoyable. These products can help reduce kitchen accidents and give you the confidence to bake again. Some of the items are the EZ SEE measuring cup which allows you to accurately measure ingredients with easy to see large numbers with high contrast, colored measuring cups and spoons with large print that allow you to see your ingredients with ease due to the contrasting colors and red pouring bowls so you can see your yummy batter. How many times have you put flour or sugar in a white measuring cup and found it difficult to see. This can become very messy. Also there are jumbo and talking timers so we don't burn our master piece and there are extra long oven mitts and oven rack guards so we don't burn ourselves. All these items we sell at Vision Dynamics as well as many other items to help you with your daily activities. Here is a recipes you can try that we hope will be enjoyed.
1st: Chocolate Chip Cookies (pre-heat oven to 375)
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups of all purpose flour
1 tsp of baking soda
1 tsp of salt
1 cup of softened butter (2 sticks)
3/4 cup of white sugar (granulated)
3/4 cup of brown sugar (packed)
1 tsp of vanilla extract
2 eggs
2 cups of chocolate morsels
1 cup of chopped nuts (optional)
1 cup of dried coconut (optional)
Combine: flour, baking soda, salt in a small bowl. Beat butter, both sugars, and vanilla in a large mixing bowl. Add eggs one at a time, use your sense of touch to feel the edge of the counter or side of the bowl and gently tap the egg and use your fingers to open the egg. This will take a bit pf practice. You can crack the egg in a separate dish so you can feel for shells. Make sure your hands are clean. Use a beater to mix and slowly add in your flour mixture. Then add your morsels. When your mixture is even, you can feel it, then you are ready to bake. Use a spoon, tsp or tbl spoon, and scoop the dough ( rolled into a ball) onto an un-greased baking sheet about 2 inches apart. You can space the dough using the spoon. Put down your first ball then place the spoon next to it and put your second ball down on the other side of the spoon until your sheet is filled. Then you are ready to put your cookies in the oven and don't forget to set your timer for 9 to 11 minutes. Pull them out, with your oven mitt, when the timer goes off and let them stand for 2 minutes before removing them to cool completely then enjoy. Just remember to take your time and have fun. It may take some time to get used to but the end result will be worth it.

Vision Dynamics at AER

Vision Dynamics had the pleasure of attending the AER Regional Conference in Boston this past weekend. The mission of AER is to support professionals who provide education and rehabilitation services to people with visual impairments, offering professional development opportunities, publications, and public advocacy.

AER's membership consists of a very diverse group, including administrators, vision rehabilitation therapists, orientation and mobility specialists, low vision therapists, itinerant teachers, and support personnel, who work with infants, children and teens, adults, seniors and veterans. Whatever the specialty, all AER members are committed to the principle that blind and visually impaired persons have unique needs which require specialized services delivered by trained individuals.

We had a flurry of people stopping at our booth eager to gather as much information about our adaptive technology so they could bring their knowledge back to those they serve. Our well staffed and energetic booth made an impact on many.

Charlie spoke on Saturday and inspired many with his positive outlook as he shared his own personal experiences and walked them through a few interactive exercises. He was able to tap into the strategies needed to deal with a vision impairment as an individual who can relate through his own trials and tribulations as well as his successes. Charlie had the ability to help educators be more in tuned with what kids might be thinking about there visual struggles and gave them tools to use to be more successful on their journey. Being diagnosed at such a young age and going through so many life changes, Charlies experiences with his own visual challenges was an inspiration to many. His energetic and compassionate personality allowed his message to be heard in a way that everyone could relate to.

Thanks so much to those that came and participated. We hope that we were able to help you solve some of your struggles. We would also like to thank those of you who stopped by our booth and continue to visit us at our store, online and a special thanks to all our verbal ambassadors.

What will you choose?

"My diagnosis still hadn't sunk in...I didn't want to tell my family that I learned I'd be blind within a matter of years. I don't think I am ready to accept it myself."

Like most individuals that are newly blind or those that have a vision impairment, showing some signs of shock and denial to their vision loss is common. According to the American Foundation for the Blind, "ten million people in the United States are blind or visually impaired." The major eye conditions are Cataracts, Macular Degeneration, Glaucoma, and Diabetic Retinopathy.

There are many stages that a person may go through, when they find out that their life is going to change because of a visual diagnosis. Usually, shock and denial come first. Patients may become overwhelmed on hearing the news for the first time that they are losing their sight or may become blind. It can take their breath away. They may say "I can see just fine and I'm not going blind." They may even leave the appointment and not tell anyone. Self-pity and anger may come next. "Why me? What have I done to deserve this? Am I a bad person?" A patient may als0 become very isolated during this phase and stop doing activities that they once loved to participate in. This type of negative thinking can lead to the depression stage. They may have a feeling of despair and worthlessness as well as helplessness. At this point it is important for them to talk to someone so they don't give up or feel completely alone. Sometimes seeking professional help or searching out a support group is a helpful option. If at this point they are ready to move a step out of their despair and find a glimmer of hope then they are ready for the reassessment stage. Here is where they can evaluate their situation and try to move forward. Maybe by talking and sharing their experience with others they are able to examine their life and find meaning and realize they are not alone. Others too have felt the same way and have been able to move on and live happy successful lives. Some changes needed to take place and a new vision had to be seen but it's possible. With this kind of open mind and hopeful attitude they may be ready for the coping stage where they will go out and find information on ways to help them live with a visual impairment. They may reach out to their Doctor, support group, or family which leads to the final stage of acceptance. This is where the real healing can begin. Here the patients hopefully will gain some hope, self-confidence, and self-worth and begin to have and understanding with his/her vision loss and move towards a happy and productive way of life.

Having a positive attitude will impact people that are blind or visually impaired. Disability must be perceived as a challenge rather then a weakness. The key to ridding yourself of a bad attitude of helplessness is to clear your mind of all negative inner conversations and replace them with more hopeful messages. It is important to have a positive inner dialogue. While it is true that feeling of anger, resentment and helplessness are normal, it is best to move forward so that your physical debilitation does not override your mental and emotional faculties as well.

Do you see the glass half empty or half full? Those that go through life with a negative attitude will find it more difficult to find happiness. On the other hand, those that have a positive attitude will be able to find some happiness, much more successfully, in living every day. Losing vision or becoming blind is a hard thing to go through but with the right outlook you can go through this challenge. We all have a choice on how we deal with things that happen to us. Are we going to choose self-pity and not live life to our fullest potential or are we going to choose to live no matter what happens and focus on all the possibilities out there. Sometimes overcoming a traumatic experience and moving forward gives us a sense of accomplishment and triumph. Learning a new way of life can stimulate the brain and opens up a whole new and exciting way of life and shows us there is never a dull moment. I would rather learn a new way to live than be stuck in a hole of self-pity and pain. Remember, it's a choice.

What will you choose?

Vision Education

Hey friends! We want to tell you about an exciting and fun opportunity to learn about low vision and maintaining healthy vision at any stage. Vision loss affects many people at all stages of their lives but it does not need to be death sentence. We here at vision dynamics understand and have a light-hearted but successful approach to managing your eye condition. Not only are we knowledgeable but we can also relate because some of us are visually impaired our selves. So sharpen your minds bring a smile and mark your calendars for classes that will inspire and inform. These 2 one session classes are available to those who are struggling with their vision or family members and friends who would like to learn more.
The dates for these classes are as follows
1st Class:
When: Wednesday October 5Th from 7pm to 9pm
Where: Vision Dynamics
470 West Main Street
Cheshire, CT 06410
Course Name: What is low vision and do I have it?
Description: This one time workshop will discuss changing vision and when it becomes low vision. The staff at Vision Dynamics along with a low vision specialist will explain what low vision is and how it can be helped. Many people with Macular Degeneration, Diabetic Retinopothy, Glaucoma or even Cataracts aren't aware of what their condition is or how it will impact their life. Others are just having a little trouble reading the newspaper and could use some help. This program will talk about these conditions and what services and tools are available to help keep your independence and a quality of life. Join us for an evening of hope and laughter as we "Learn to see again".
2ND Class:
When: Thursday October 27Th from 7pm to 9pm
Where: Vision Dynamics
470 West Main Street
Cheshire, CT 06410
Course Name: Maintaining Healthy Vision at an stage
Description: This is a one time class that will explore ways to keep your vision healthy. The staff at Vision Dynamics will present a variety of approaches to healthy eating, exercise, sun protection and a good attitude. Whether your vision is perfect or impaired, everyone can improve the health of the vision they currently have. New research has exploded with information about food and vitamins that can be helpful in maintaining vision. Learn recipes, strategies and tools that can help make a difference.
Registration is through Cheshire Adult Ed 203-250-2450
Website: http://www.cheshire.k12.ct.us/adulted/defaulthtml
Be prepared to have a new vision and don't forget to bring your sense of humor. We like to laugh at Vision Dynamics. Remember, we don't see with our eyes we see with our brains. Can't wait to see you in October!

Summer Air Travel

Summer seems to be a time for travel and for those with low vision or who are legally blind this can be a challenge. Airports present many obstacles to passengers traveling with a visual impairment. It is hard enough for a sited person to maneuver through a crowded airport and to stand in line to be patted down be some stranger with bad breath and an attitude. It can also be an adventure trying to board a plane with everyone trying to stuff there baggage into the overhead compartments squished together like a can of sardines. There is no such thing as personal space when boarding a plane. For someone who is totally blind and traveling with a seeing-eye dog or a cane, it is obvious that they may need some assistance. Those with low vision on the other hand, have to do a bit more asking, be more organized an get to the airport earlier than most. It is not fun knowing your plane is about to take off and you are running towards the gate not being able to read the signs, even though they can be quite large, praying that you are headed in the right direction. Planning ahead of time is the best way to save yourself from headaches and unwanted stress that can be a voided with a few phone calls and some simple steps.

• Read about your destination and plan out what sights you will want to visit and contact those places to see if they offer special services. Pre purchase tickets if possible for parks and attractions.


• Research accomodations. Foreign destinations are likely to have different accomodations and services from your home city or town. Prepare yourself by researching your trip before you plan your travels.


• Make reservations whenever possible. Call the airline and ask about assistance and tell them your are visually impaired. Give them as much information as possible and let them know what you will need, (preboarding, luggage help, connecting to your next flight). Also let them know if you have a guide dog. Ask about seating arrangements, special meals, and shuttle and driving services. Some airlines allow trained service dogs to sit in the cabin. Continental and Delta are two airlines that will.


• If you are meeting an airline representative or transportation company let them know what you look like and what you are wearing.


• Plan for quide-dog restrictions. Some countries and states such as Hawaii either do not allow guide dogs for short visits or have quarentine requirements. Call your local guide-dog school for information on restrictions.


• Carry written directions with you. Have them written down before leaving. Even if you can't read them you can ask for help by showing then to someone else if you get lost. It's also helpfu to have a copy of the exact addrss of where you are going. A driver may not know where a specific hotel is, especially if there are several with the same name.


• Bring helpful technology with you such as a monocular, handheld magnifier, or mini video magnifier.


• Keep necessities with you at all times. Carry your money, keys, tickets and passes in a pocket. If you happen to misplace your purse or wallet or someone takes it, you can still reach your destination. Keep some extra money handy for tips.


• Notify others about your needs. Inform those around you about your visual limitation. Ask questions. If you can't see a monitor or find a gate at the airport ask a customer service representative or another traveler to help you find your way.


• CARRY your cane. Whether you choose to use it or not for mobility puposes, your cane helps to identify others that you are visually impaired.


• Ask about amusement park or other tourist discounts. Some of the amusement parks give discounts either to visually impaired visitors or to their sighted guides.


• If you do bring a suitcase, remember its type and color. It may be helpful to putt a colorful piece of ribbon or a sticker to help you or anyone assisting you with easy identification.


• Enhance your sensory experience by going on tours and visiting gift shops. Some tour groups allow travelers who are visually impaired to experience an exibit by tuching objects that are off limits to others. Gift shops often sell dmall cale replicas of monuments you can touch.

Remember that travel is supposed to be an adventure and exciting so take your time and enjoy all you can even if everything does not go exactly as planned. Happy Travels!

Questions to ask your Doctor when your vision changes.

At some point in our lives we all have an obstacle to overcome. For some of us the obstacle is changes to or loss of our vision that alter how we deal with our daily activities. This can be overwhelming and a bit scary. It often leaves us feeling somewhat hopeless and fearful for our future, but that does not have to be our only feeling. There are some steps that can be taken and questions to ask that can help us see a new way to deal with our diagnosis and bring us to a feeling of hope.

You have just found out that your vision is not what it used to be an you schedule an appointment with your Ophthalmologist. A good dialogue with your doctor is key to understanding what your risk factors are for certain eye conditions and to determining the best course of action to take. There are some very important questions to ask to help decide the next step.
On Risk Factors

• Do I have any risk factors for eye disease (age, ethnicity, family history, etc.) ?
  


• If I'm at risk for certain eye conditions, what can I do to lower or manage that risk

On Symptoms

• What's causing my vision changes or symptoms?
  


• Are my vision changes a normal part of aging, or could they be a sign of something more serious?



• Will my vision problems get worse?
  


• What can I do to correct or manage my eye or vision problems?

On Eye Tests

• Based on my symptoms and risk factors, which eye tests should I receive and how often?
  


• Did my eye exam or test results reveal any changes in my vision since my last eye exam? What d0 those changes mean?
  


• Do I need additional testing, and if so, when should I come back for that, and how should I prepare?
  


• Are there any potential side effects or risks posed by the eye tests I'll be receiving?
  

On Treatments

• What are the treatment options for my vision loss or eye problems?
  


• What are the possible side effects or risks involved in the treatment you recommend?
  


• Are there any medications I should avoid, given my eye condition?
  


• What habits should I adopt to help protect my eyes and reduce my risk of disease?
  


• What else can I do to protect my remaining vision?
  


• Are there any product on the market that can help me?

Before you walk away

• Asked all your question? Great! Now, before you walk away, make sure you understand all the answers, and ask more questions if you don't. Understanding the information your doctor shares helps establish an effective working partnership with your eye doctor. Working together, your can take key steps toward maintaining good vision and reducing your risk for serious eye problems down the road.

One thing to be aware of is that not all Ophthalmologist have the answer. There are those times you may hear "there is nothing else that can be done". That may not be true. If your doctor has not mentioned a Low Vision Specialist or Adaptive Technology, then you may want to look into those options. Some Doctors are uninformed and have helped you to the best of their ability. There are many products on the market today that can enhance your quality of life and allow you to live as independently as possible. As a patient we need to take charge of our care and move forward to see what we can do instead of sitting on the sidelines focusing on what we have lost.

Hope this information helps as a guideline to getting started on your journey into a different way of life.

At Vision Dynamics we understand how difficult it can be living with low vision- the owner is legally blind and our sales diva Tracy is also legally blind. When we come to work, we are always hearing about the difficulties of simple tasks - such as, being legally blind and going to the grocery store. So, we decided it was time to share some tips on living with low vision, from someone with low vision - our very own Tracy! Tracy has been legally blind since the age of seven, but never let that stop her from living her life. She works, raises two kids, helps run her household and goes shopping. We all know that going to the grocery store can be a bit trick, but having low vision should not stop you from going and it can be an adventure. Here are some of Tracy's tips for a successful shopping experience: 1) Make a list of the items you need - write with a bold black pen and on bold lined paper so that it is easier to read. 2) If writing isn't an option - you can record your list on a small handheld recorder 3) Bring other adaptive devices - monocular, pocket video magnifier (such as an Optelec Compact+ or Aumed Eye-C), large print checks, folding cane, a handheld magnifier and most importantly PATIENCE and a POSITIVE ATTITUDE. Patience and a positive attitude may very well be the hardest, but the more you do on your own and the more comfortable you are in accepting your low vision, the easier this becomes. When you begin your shopping experience, it is helpful to use the white cane. It will not only help you navigate the store, but will also identify you to other shoppers as someone who is visually impaired. Since most stores have signs above each isle, use your monocular to see the distant signs so that you can orient yourself to the store layout. A monocular (just like binoculars, but it is only for one eye) can also be used in shopping malls to see store names in the distance. Once you are in the correct aisle or store, it is time to select the items on your list. Seeing the labels or price tags can be quite challenging, this is where your pocket video magnifier or handheld magnifier comes into play. Use these devices to magnify the small print. The pocket video magnifier is a useful tool because it allows you to take a picture if an item is high up or on a lower shelf. You can then view the picture up close. Using your magnifying devices will help insure that you are buying the peas on your shopping list instead of the green beans your kids hate. Here's a secret - sighted people buy the wrong items all the time! Perhaps us sighted folks should take some advice and slow down. During the shopping process there may be people who wonder what you're doing, or ask if you need help. It is OK to explain to them you are visually impaired and it may even lead into some interesting conversations. They may know someone who is visually impaired and that is the best time to educate on living independently! If you are uncomfortable explaining yourself, it is also okay to say " no thank you" or, if you are struggling and someone offers to help it is definitely okay to accept their help. Once you have found all of your items it is time to check out - this can be an intimidating experience but don't worry - there are things you can do! Having large print checks from the bank will make it easier to fill out the checks ( these are available by request at most banks). Most stores have credit card machines that allow you to sign anywhere in the box, which is great because you don't have to worry about staying on a line! If you need to use your debit card you can always use your handheld magnifier to see the keypad, but sometimes this is complicated because the screen is difficult to see. In this case, Tracy has asked the cashier for help. When asking for assistance, just explain that you are visually impaired and cannot see the display, and the cashier will help you complete your transaction. If you are using cash to pay, there is a money reader called Money Talks that identifies what denomination each bill is. Tracy also folds her bills a certain way, so that she can differentiate between different denominations. Another important item to have with you is a cell phone. This is great to have if you need to call for a ride or your spouse calls because they forgot to ask you to pick up something that wasn't on your list. Remember that shopping with low vision can be a successful experience! Most important is to have patience and a sense of humor can go along way. Tracy recalls a family vacation when she was shopping with her daughter. They were in a store that had ow lighting. Tracy was wearing a baseball cap (this further impaired her vision) and the store was filled with t-shirts, bags, purses, and other touristy items. Now, Tracy LOVES purses and she began looking at several on a rack in front of her. She found one that was particularly nice and she started to touch it - then the bag began to move! Tracy looked up and noticed the purse was attached to a person. The woman was standing in front of her with the bag hanging from her shoulder. Tracy laughed and quickly apologized and explained that she was visually impaired. The woman probably thought her purse was being stolen, and was relieved when she found out it wasn't. Just remember, don't be afraid to use adaptive devices, keep a sense of humor, stay calm and have patience - shopping can be fun! For more information on any of the adaptive devices listed in this article please visit www.VisionDynamics.com or call 203-271-1944

IF I COULD ONLY SEE!

"If I could only see!" These are famous words, said by so many of us who have lost our sight; or enough of it that they call us legally blind. Which raises a great question, who are they? Why do so many of us concern ourselves with what they call us? Or, even worse, what they think of us? Would we really be happier if they thought all good things about us? What makes the visually impaired so important that people spend their time thinking about us? Are they actually thinking of us or are they thinking of themselves?

Why is it we are so concerned with what we don't have? Is sight what makes us whole? Would I be happier if I had all my sight? I don't think so. So many people believe if they had just one thing, they would have true happiness. The reality is, once that one thing is granted to them they seek something else; never finding real, true happiness within themselves.

From my travels, and my different speaking engagements, I learned there are many people who are waiting for something outside themselves to provide their happiness. What I discovered for myself; and for those I have helped over the years; is that happiness is an inside thing. Happiness comes from within. I am good enough and I accept myself exactly as I am in this moment. That statement can only come from a truly happy person. Great, that sounds easy! I'll say that statement and I'll be happy...why is it not working? In order to work, when you say it, you have to believe it.

Yes, it takes some work to get into this mindset; but, aren't you worth it? Yes, we are all worth it. Deep down inside each of us we have amazing gifts to share with the world. What excites me the most about helping people is after some cleaning and clarifying, we can all operate out of this place of happiness and begin to live the life of our dreams. Cleaning and clarity you ask? Yes, cleaning, clarity and vision is where it starts.

Before venturing forth into happiness, you need to have a clear vision. With a clear vision, with your mental blocks removed, a plan in place and one step at a time, you are on your way to real happiness.

You may be saying to yourself, "I am blind, I don't have vision!" I always say, we don't see with our eyes, we see with our brains. With this in mind, everyone can have clear vision in their lives.

As Helen Keller said, "The only thing worse than being blind is being sighted with no vision."

For me, even worse was being legally blind with no vision.

It is all about VISION and in my next article I will share with you the initial step we take to start focusing on what we want and how to create crystal clear vision.

Charlie Collins, Certified Professional Success Coach
Founder and C.E.O
Vision Dynamics & CCI, LLC

Vision Dynamics will be at the CannOTA Conference (Connecticut Occupational Therapists Association) on March 12th from 8:00 to 1:30. We will have a booth with many low vision products for attendees to manipulate and touch so they will be abe to experience the use of these items in their daly lives. Adaptive technology is one of the keys to living a more independent life as well as a positive attitude and an open mind. We encourage you to come and visit us with questions or just to say hello. Looking forward to meeting you.

Charlie Collins Featured in Matilda Ziegler Magazine for the Blind

Matilda Ziegler Magazine for the Blind

THE SOURCE FOR BLINDNESS NEWS AND INFORMATION SINCE 1907

Feature Writer Steven Famiglietti - Interview with Vision Dynamics Owner, Charlie Collins

December 15, 2010

"My childhood was fun, I spent a lot of time dreaming, I was a dreamer", said Collins. "I used to ride my bike in the woods and dream about what I would do when I grew up. I wanted to ride and race motorcycles and fly air planes!" Collins said enthusiastically. He grew up with five other brothers and sisters and as children, they were all a very close family and everyone got along well.

Before Charlie was officially diagnosed with macular degeneration, he had the sense that something was wrong and that he was "different" than the other children in school. "I noticed that I could not read as quickly as the other students in class, I started to feel like I was not as good as everyone else." Then, in 1977, after seeing many doctors in Connecticut, the family went to Mass Eye and Ear where Charlie and some of his brothers and sisters underwent many hours of testing. "I actually thought it was a lot of fun" recalls Collins, "I got to take a few days off from school and go up to Boston for all of the testing." After three years of testing, the doctors told Charlie and a few of his siblings that they were legally blind. "I thought when the doctors were done that they were going to fix what was wrong with me. But, they told me I had an eye disease and that I would be legally blind for the rest of my life because of this macular degeneration thing. These doctors who did all this testing, they couldn't make my vision get better and they said there was nothing they could do for us, that was the biggest let down for me. I immediately felt like I just wasn't good enough and that all my dreams were never going to happen, it was majorly depressing to me."

For the next several years, Charlie continued to fall deeper into the mind set of believing he was someone who couldn't do the things he wanted to do in his life. It made both middle and high school extremely difficult for him. Charlie recounted a guidance counselor who said, "Well, since you are legally blind, you might as well get used to the fact that you can't attend college and learn how to let others take care of you, because you can't do it for yourself. We'll have to figure out how you can just coast through your life." The negative attitude coming from the guidance counselor further degraded Collins and he had just about given up on any furture for himself.

He began visiting a local motorcycle dealership where he started to mow the lawn and maintain the grounds. One day, the owner of the facility asked Collins if he would be interested in working inside the dealership selling motorcycles. Charlie went home that day and told his mother abouth the offer. He also told her that he couldn't understand why they would want someone who was legally blind to work at the dealership. "When are you going to stop settling for the good, and begin going for the greatness that is within you?" asked his mother. After much thought, Charlie accepted the position at the dealership. He began to enthusiastically learn everything he could about the business and soon became their top performing salesperson. After a few years, the owner approached him and asked him if he wanted to become part owner.

Charlie accepted the offer and spent several years as the Vice President. "I sold a lot of motorcycles and made a lot of money, and it was great. After a while though, I realized that even though I had accomplished many goals, I wasn't completely happy. I felt like somet6hing was missing, I wasn't feeling whole." Charlie realized that individuals with vision impairments and other disabilities can achieve their goals. Coming from a past of depression, and overtime learning how to overcome obstacles and use adaptive devices, Charlie wanted to help others realize that they could do teh same. "I wanted to start doing something to help other people," he said. "So, I decided to leave the motorcycle business to find a career doing soemthing to help others."

In 1997, Charlie opened Vision Dynamics, a store filled with products and services designed to help people with low vision, blindness, and learning difficulties. "I asked my father, George Collins, if he would come by and help me hang slat wall and he has been wroking with me ever since that day! With Vision Dynamics, I am working with people who are going through much of the same things I did. We are able to provide them with tools to help individuals learn to be successful and independent. Our staff is also able to help them overcome the negative attitude and to understand that they too can accomplish great things in their lives. If the needs of a customer become such that they need the help of a low vision doctor, we have Dr. Randy Kinkade available at our facility to address those needs."

Charlie also travels around the country sharing his experience, strenth, and hope with others. "It doesn't matter if the people in the audiences are visually impaired or not, we all have struggles in our lives, these struggles give us choices. We can choose to let the negative side beat us down, or we can choose to turn the negatives into positives and work towards accomplishing our goals."

When I started to write this article, I realized that I heard two voices from Charlie. When we discussed his life before he found his calling, I heard a low adn quiet tone to his voice. When we discussed his career at Vision Dynamics, I heard a loud and enthusiastic voice.

Collins said, "We don't see with our eyes, we see with our brains and with the correct attitude and outlook we can accomplish anything!" The last thing Charlie said was, "Although my sight may be bad, I have clear vision- hence, Vision Dynamics, the clear vision company!"

If you would like to know more about the products and services offered at Vision Dynamics, you can reach them in one of the ways listed below:

Vision Dynamics

470 West main Street

Cheshire, CT 06410

Phone: 203-271-1944

Fax: 203-271-3997

http://www.visiondynamics.com/